Vega's POV
The dim corridor stretched endlessly in front of me, like some bad horror movie set.
If the chandelier didn't look like it was about to fall, I might've actually enjoyed the atmosphere. But here I was, stuck in yet another ridiculously over-the-top scene that didn't impress me in the slightest.
I stopped in front of a statue that probably cost more than my annual shopping spree-an angel and a demon, forever locked in some kind of eternal, celestial staring contest.
I mean, who needs a TV when you've got this kind of dramatic nonsense?
I placed my hand on the cool surface of the statue. "В кабинет начальницы." (To the headmistress's office.)
The statues responded in unison, "как хочешь." (As you wish.)
Okay, that was a little creepy, even for me. I pushed through the hidden door, trying not to gag at the couple who were now busy in their business.
"Eww... Gross,"
I muttered under my breath.
The familiar sound of a loud ahem made me roll my eyes. I was sure they didn't even have to try to be that dramatic.
Of course, I was interrupted just when I was about to enjoy a bit of alone time.
The couple froze, looking at me like I had just stormed into the middle of their intimate moment.
I arched a brow, a smirk forming on my lips as I dropped into my best British accent.
"Oh, so this is what I'm summoned for? The lovey-dovey show? Well, aren't you two just the picture of perfect romance?"
They both paused, sizing me up.
My dark blue eyes met theirs with a look that screamed 'I'm too cool for this,' and my silver-platinum and black hair was messily tied in a loose ponytail.
I was rocking the Koldovstoretz uniform-black skirt, boots, white shirt, black coat with the emblem-and I probably looked way too good for this situation.
Don't even get me started on the beauty mark on my cheek and those star-shaped earrings. Subtle, but still giving off the 'I've got it all' vibe.
The woman, Aurelia Cromwell, Headmistress of Koldovstoretz and my self-claimed godmother, sighed dramatically. "Vega, must you always be so sarcastic? Anyway, your godfather has something important to discuss."
Severus Snape, my godfather and Hogwarts' Potions Master, cleared his throat.
"Vega, you'll be transferring to Hogwarts tomorrow. I've taken care of your supplies, and Aurelia has packed your luggage. All that's left is for you to get a wand."
I raised an eyebrow, trying not to look too surprised. "And will I be crashing with you or my parents?"
Snape's voice was its usual deadpan self. "That's up to you. But Narcissa has offered to host you at Malfoy Manor."
Aurelia muttered something under her breath, and I smirked.
"Got it. I'll meet you here at 9 PM."
---
Knockturn Alley:
Wand Shopping
As the bustling noise of Diagon Alley died behind me, I followed Snape into the darkness of Knockturn Alley.
Let me tell you-if Diagon Alley was crowded with cheery tourists, this place was the complete opposite.
Dark, shady, and perfect for dodging the more boring crowds.
Snape's voice broke the silence. "Normally, I'd take you to Ollivander's, but I know pre-made wands won't work for you. Keep your hood up and stay close."
I nodded, pulling my cloak's hood up, already intrigued by what was lurking in the shadows. Koldovstoretz's Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, Esmeralda, had told us fascinating stories about this place.
But I wasn't about to admit it to Snape, who'd probably think I was getting too curious for my own good.
The shop we entered was small, dusty, and smelled like a mix of mothballs and dark magic. The shelves were lined with all sorts of weird wand components. Behind the counter stood a woman with raven-black hair, a nose piercing, and eyes so green they looked like they could slice you in half.
"Snape," she greeted, a sly smile curling on her lips. "A custom wand, I assume?"
He nodded.
"For the girl?" she asked, her piercing gaze flicking over me.
"Yes."
She motioned for me to come forward. "Stretch out your hand, dear, and let your magic guide you."
I removed my hood, giving her a once-over, then blindfolded myself with the cloth she handed me. My hands hovered over different woods, but none felt quite right-until I reached the last two: yew and elder wood.
"Interesting," she murmured. "Yew and elder-a rare combination."
Next came the cores. I felt a spark of magic surge through me as my hands brushed over two: Dementor's cloak and horned serpent scales.
The woman smirked like she knew I was trouble. "A tricky combination, but perfect for you."
She let me take off the blindfold. I blinked at her as she measured my arms. "Fifteen inches, ambidextrous. A powerful wand indeed."
"How much?" I asked, trying not to sound too impressed.
"Twenty galleons, including a wand holster and polish set. It'll be ready in two hours."
Snape paid without a word, and we headed off to explore Diagon Alley while we waited for my new weapon to be crafted.
---
Malfoy Manor
After snagging my sleek, polished wand, we Apparated to Malfoy Manor.
Narcissa Malfoy, my mom greeted us warmly, her sharp features softening as she wrapped me in an embrace.
"Vega, darling, welcome home," she said, her voice smooth as she was dying to meet me.
I forced a smile, my mind already on the impending trip to Hogwarts. "Thanks, Mom. Can't wait."
To Be Continued...